FAFSA Checklist – What you need to know about applying for FAFSA

The new 2018-19 FAFSA form has become available to apply on since Oct. 1st of this year. We have decided to make a checklist to help make sure you are on track to be eligible to apply for the new school year. Below is a checklist of things you need to have completed and ready in order to be able to apply for FAFSA for you or your kids who are ready to start college!

• Create an account for your FSA ID on fafsa.gov (create this early to make sure you do not fall behind on the process even if you are not ready to complete the FAFSA form.
• Meet the basic criteria:
  • Have a Social Security Number (or Alien Registration Number)
  • Have a driver’s license number ready (if you do not have a license then ignore this step)
  • Have a high school diploma or GED certificate
  • Register with Selective Service if you are a male 18-25 and not currently on active duty in the US Armed Forces
• Be up to date with all your tax returns
  • FAFSA now requires you to report your income information from the earlier tax year
  • For the 2018-19 form you will need your 2017 tax information
    • Tax Return information ready
    • W-2 available for reference
    • Records of untaxed income (if applicable)
    • Records of assets (if applicable)
    • Bank statements/records of investments (if applicable)
  • IF you have a conviction for possession or sale of illegal drugs, you must complete the Student Aid Eligibility Worksheet to determine if you are eligible or partially eligible for aid.